27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
Music, acrobatics and local flavour at this year's LaSalle Strawberry Festival
Mark your calendars for the return of the LaSalle Strawberry Festival, set for Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the Vollmer Recreation Complex, 2121 Laurier Parkway. The four-day celebration promises a packed lineup of entertainment, carnival rides, a hometown parade, dazzling fireworks and plenty of local food—especially fresh strawberries.
Organizers are currently finalizing plans for the festival's 37th year, which has grown into LaSalle's signature summer event.
'The LaSalle Strawberry Festival is a celebration of our town's history and community spirit,' said Mayor Crystal Meloche. 'As our longest-running event, it reflects the heart of LaSalle—where families, friends and visitors come to celebrate summer. From exciting entertainment to tasty local strawberries, there's something for everyone.'
Local businesses, service clubs and community groups are invited to join the LaSalle Strawberry Festival Parade on Saturday, June 7. The 1.5-km route begins at the Turkey Creek Bridge on Front Road and ends at Sacred Heart Drive. Step-off is at 10 a.m. and parade participation is free. Applications are open until May 30 on the LaSalle Strawberry Festival website.
This year's entertainment lineup includes the Canadian performance group Throw 2 Catch, who will bring their high-energy 'Geek Quest' show to the festival grounds. This unique acrobatic performance combines circus-style feats, humour and heart as a quirky team of heroes takes the stage. Audiences can expect synchronized flips, daring stunts and gravity-defying throws in a show designed to entertain all ages.
Live music also takes centre stage with a trio of featured headliners. On Thursday evening, Amherstburg country artist Adam Butcher kicks off the music with a performance known for strong vocals and stage charisma. On Friday night, Windsor's Slim Pickerel Band takes the spotlight with their genre-blending style that mixes rock, folk, country, blues and Motown.
Saturday's featured act is veteran performer Jody Raffoul, a rock singer-songwriter from Leamington known for his soulful voice and working-class anthems. Raffoul has built a loyal following over three decades and has shared the stage with international acts including Bon Jovi, Joe Cocker and The Guess Who. His music blends classic rock and modern edge with a personal, story-driven touch.
Slim Pickerel's four-piece ensemble has deep Essex County roots and a sound shaped by the Great Lakes region. Their music ranges from heartfelt ballads to guitar-driven jams, telling stories grounded in everyday life. Known for high-energy live sets, the band brings a strong local presence to the weekend stage.
Adam Butcher is a rising name in country music, also rooted in Essex County. Known for his authentic style and crowd-pleasing performances, Butcher continues to gain attention as he explores new musical horizons.
Whether you come for the rides, the music or the food, the 2025 LaSalle Strawberry Festival has something for everyone. Visit the festival website closer to the event date for a full schedule of activities, concerts and family attractions.
